At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing and procurement activities to drive innovation and sustainability.
- Company: Join a dynamic Public Sector organisation in the North East during a transformative period.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, Local Government Pension Scheme, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with flexibility and opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Three years' experience in Procurement or Category Management, with strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Cedar Recruitment are currently partnering exclusively with a Public Sector organisation in the North East to recruit two Category Managers on a permanent basis. The role will be to join and support a growing Procurement function during a significant period of transformation. These positions offer a salary of £50,000-£60,000 per year alongside an excellent benefits package, including access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and employee discounts. The roles are hybrid working, typically requiring three days on site per week, with flexibility depending on demands and project delivery.
Main Duties:
- Develop and deliver strategic sourcing and category management approaches across a range of goods and services, achieving value for money, innovation and sustainability.
- Lead end-to-end procurement activity including tendering, negotiation, contract award and contract management for significant spend areas.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, providing commercial and procurement advice, guidance and solutions.
- Develop collaborative relationships with external suppliers and industry bodies to share knowledge and best practice.
- Drive supplier engagement and market collaboration to identify innovation, efficiencies and savings opportunities.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with Public Procurement legislation, governance and organisational policies.
- Monitor supplier performance, spend analysis and category risks to deliver commercial benefits and improved outcomes.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across procurement processes, systems and commercial delivery.
Experience Required:
- A minimum of three years experience in Procurement, Commercial, Contract, or Category Management roles within the Public Sector.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and supplier relationship management skills.
- A proven ability to deliver cost savings and manage compliant end to end procurement exercises.
- Previous experience within the UK Public Sector environment would be beneficial.
- Experience of using contract suited NEC/JCT is advantageous.
- Knowledge of, or training in, PA23 regulations would be highly advantageous.
Category Manager in North East employer: Cedar Recruitment
Joining this Public Sector organisation as a Category Manager offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful transformation while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a competitive salary, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, and flexible hybrid working arrangements, employees can thrive in a collaborative environment that values innovation and sustainability in procurement practices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the lookout for Category Manager roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's procurement strategies and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their transformation journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to employers looking for top talent like you.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to deliver cost savings and manage supplier relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience in the public sector and how you can contribute to the transformation of the procurement function.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills. These are key for the role, so provide examples of how you've successfully managed relationships and driven efficiencies in past positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar Recruitment
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially around strategic sourcing and category management. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in public sector procurement and be ready to discuss how you've successfully delivered cost savings in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers. Think about specific situations where you provided valuable commercial advice or solutions, as this will demonstrate your ability to engage effectively.
✨Understand Compliance Inside Out
Since compliance is key in public sector procurement, make sure you can talk confidently about relevant legislation and governance. Brush up on PA23 regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in your past procurement activities.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to drive innovation. Prepare to discuss how you would handle supplier performance issues or identify savings opportunities, showcasing your analytical and strategic thinking.
